Faith vs. Fear

Faith is a gift from God. Fear is not. The bible references 365 ways to command us to "Fear Not." So what is there to fear in life if our Lord covers us?  Why are we disobedient? Is there a payoff for allowing ourselves the luxury of sinning through fear-based living?

Fear allows us to complain. Complaint gives us attention. Complaint leads to gossip. It's a vicious circle because gossip returns to fear. They are all cousins of contention. The contentious lifestyle feeds the sin-desires of the soul. It's a dangerous way to live. Fear-based living nurtures the root of bitterness.  Bitter and fearful lives are god-less lives.

Nothing good ever comes out of fear-based decisions. Yet it's our natural response to react to strange experiences or life beyond our control in fear. However, as children of God, we should expect evil to come against us. 

When evil rises up or we sense fear is coming upon our heart, it's a sign that it's time to suit up for battle. We live in a world of spiritual warfare. Yet hate does not dispel hate. Love is the only answer. The living word is our sword. Speaking the word of the Lord aloud and standing on his words is great and powerful. It's to Gods' glory and our joy.

When we react to hate by being hateful, we become a hate-filled person. This is why Romans 12:2 is so important. We must not conform to the world. No, we must transform through the renewing of our mind. Then our new, natural reaction becomes love, compassion and kindness. So the next time you react in fear, do not rely on your feeling but pick up your sword and speak Gods' words aloud. Rebuke the evil one in the name of Jesus. Stand firm in your faith -grounded and strong in the love of Christ. Tune your heart to hear the Comforter -the Holy Spirit- who will guide you in your battle. Be obedient. Pray for the person or thing that caused the fear-reaction that Gods' love would cover them. 

Faith is active, assured, content, focused, strong, loving and compassionate. It's of God. It's righteous. Fear is stagnant, discontent, erratic, weak, and hateful. It is not of God. It is evil. Fear is evil.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." 

-Romans 12:2